Cats forced into changes

By
SMITHTON v WYNYARD By BRAD COLE

A CONSTANTLY changing team has been a hindrance in some respects, but also a long-term help for Wynyard as it tries to end the roster season unbeaten against Smithton today.

OPPORTUNITY: Wynyard's Declan Moore will be one player looking to cement his spot in the side against Smithton today. Picture: Jason Hollister.

A CONSTANTLY changing team has been a hindrance in some respects, but also a long-term help for Wynyard as it tries to end the roster season unbeaten against Smithton today.

Another six changes were forced upon coach Errol Bourn this week as he tries to get his side cherry ripe for the finals series, but according to veteran forward Gregg Sharman it's been a blessing in disguise.

"It's resulted in us giving plenty of guys an opportunity this year — I think we've played 41 guys in the seniors this year," Sharman said.

"It's given the likes of Tom Mitchell, Sam Gleeson and Declan Moore an opportunity to cement their spot and it will be very interesting next week at the selection table."

While Smithton is at the end of another disappointing season, they will want to finish the season strongly and give defender Mark Kearnes the ideal gift for his 150th senior game.

Sharman said the trip to Circular Head is never an easy one.

"It's the toughest road trip, there's no doubt about that," he said.

"They're not playing finals football but that doesn't mean we will be taking Smithton lightly, they are always good opposition down there and they'll be looking to finish off their year in the right manner."

While key defenders Caleb Alford and Matthew Wooldridge are missing this week, Sharman, expects the remainder of the backline to step up to fill the void, including 2012 premiership coach Shannon Bakes.

"Bakesy will fill the void there pretty well, but Hamish Shaw has had an outstanding season, Dane Poke is an underrated player externally and been a really solid player for us all year, as has Jordan Englund — it's an even spread down there."